A metagene is a unit of heredity found in approximately 12% of living human organisms. It defines whether or not an individual has the potential to develop superhuman powers in response to a traumatic incident. Not all superhuman beings possess a metagene however. Many heroes and villains derive their powers through cultural heritage or acts of fate. Those who have developed powers from the gene are known as Metahumans. A metagene is the DC equivalent to the Marvel Comics mutagenic x-factor. The metagene was first discovered by the super-scientist Dominators during Invasion!.